Job Description

General Summary:

The Associate Director of Logistics Operations is responsible for management and execution of all Small Molecule & Biologics product distribution and product movement logistics in support of product delivery.

This includes establishing, championing, and implementing end to end management of clinical/development and commercial shipments with real-time tracking and troubleshooting of issues. This person will manage Temperature Controlled logistics shipments, 3PL management, carrier management, import/export compliance and product distribution.

The role works closely with couriers, Clinical Operations, CMO scheduling staff, QA and other stakeholders to plan and execute product movement logistics. The Associate Director is integral to the success of the clinical and commercial programs at Vertex.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Plays a key role in the commercialization strategy for small molecule [CF & Pain] and biologics including processes and technological requirements.
• Management of all site-to-site materials movement including, but not limited to API, Start Material, SDD, DS, DP and other materials involved on manufacturing / testing / release of Clinical and/or Commercial products across the network (Internal / External / 3PL / etc.)
• Accountable for establishing programs/partnerships and supporting sourcing & selection activities of global 3PLs that can be used by the business to deliver outsourced services for warehousing, transport and international logistics.
• Supports development and execution of logistics network strategy supporting product launches and life-cycle management, in alignment with Vertex’s corporate strategy.
• Oversees Logistics Service Provider (LSP) performance, including: relationship management, service/performance, audit and qualification, RFI/RFP’s, continuous improvement and support of contract related activities (i.e. CDA, MSA, SOW, Rate Card, etc.).
• Develop continuous improvement plans for Vertex’s Logistics infrastructure.* Assist in the identification and implementation of continuous improvement opportunities and customer satisfaction opportunities.
• Identify, initiate, and manage cross-functional logistics projects using appropriate project management expertise and methodologies.
• Manage the operational aspects of on-going projects and serve as liaison between project management, project team, Quality, and line management.
• Oversee LSP’s trade management activities and enforce corporate compliance as it pertains to the transportation of goods domestically and internationally, including troubleshoot of trade related issues.
• Represent and contribute on behalf of the Global Logistics functions when the organization engages in strategic projects, business ventures or seeks to expand into emerging and new markets; seeks to rationalize, review or invest in technology platforms that affect the logistics organization directly or indirectly.
• Facilitate cross-functional team collaborations as well as support executive leadership and stakeholders within the business in developing business strategies, inclusive of long-term goals and objectives.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate complex issues and solutions enterprise-wide.
• Excellent team player who is able to build and sustain respect and trust at all levels of the organization.
• Ability to anticipate adverse scenarios and provide contingency plans to address them.
• Sound judgment and business acumen with personal versatility and flexibility as the business and team evolves.
• Direct experience with managing logistics and temperature control / cold chain operations.
• Proven supervisory experience and demonstrated ability to develop direct reports.
• Has familiarity with managing Logistics with a network of both internal and external (CDMO)manufacturing sites.
• Has an excellent understanding of Good Distribution Practices in the Pharmaceutical Industry.
• Has a working knowledge of Trade Compliance requirements.
• Has knowledge of Logistics systems such as TMS, WMS and system / carrier integrations.
• Demonstrated ability to successfully plan and optimize all resources of a group or function(budgets, staff, technology, succession planning, etc.) for advancement of all goals and objectives.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative and fast-paced team environment, including business leadership to build alignment.
• Ability to influence others in sensitive or difficult situations.
• Ability to think critically and demonstrate troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to function efficiently and independently in a changing environment.
• Familiarity with various regulations including those related to hazardous shipments, employee safety, and freight classifications.
• In depth experience in Microsoft Excel (tables, arrays, formulas, conditional formatting).

Education and Experience:

• 7-10+ years progressive experience in Supply Chain, Logistics and/or manufacturing leadership roles in the pharmaceutical industry – Experience with Biological products and Genetic and Cell Therapy technologies is strongly preferred.
• Master’s degree in business or supply chain or industrial engineering or finance preferred.
• Experience in building and managing complex Global Supply Chain Logistics operations and Network Design principles.
• Thought leader in Logistics, Warehousing and Transportation with a proven ability to innovate and implement practical, compliant solutions.
• Proven ability to work seamlessly across teams and develop excellent partnerships with peers.
• Demonstrated understanding of the principles and regulations associated with GDP operations.

At Vertex, we embrace continuous learning and encourage employees to stay informed on advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends. We seek talent who bring an external perspective, demonstrate curiosity and sound judgment, and thoughtfully adopt new capabilities that improve decision-making, drive innovation, increase efficiency, and help deliver better outcomes for patients.

Pay Range:

Disclosure Statement:

Flex Designation:

Flex Eligibility Status:

In this Remote-Eligible role, you can choose to be designated as: 
1.    Remote: work remotely five days per week and come into the office on occasion – you’re always welcome on-site; or select 
2.    Hybrid: work remotely up to two days per week; or select
3.    On-Site: work five days per week on-site with ad hoc flexibility.

Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex’s Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time. 

#LI-Remote

Company Information

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation.

Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.

Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at [email protected]